Toledo isn’t short on amenities. It's got a world-class art museum, an award-winning library system, a zoo that could rival any across the nation, and an ambitious parks system looking to revitalize the city's riverfront.

That, coupled with the low cost of living, makes it — in theory — the perfect place for any young person to build the life they want to live. But many young people aren’t satisfied with ease and comfort and are still waiting for something more. Something that Toledo is working on, but might not have fully figured out yet.

Research has shown that young people, in part because of their adventurousness, are more likely than their older counterparts to start new businesses, donate to charitable causes and advocate for social and economic justice within their communities. If it’s a search for adventure that has led them away from Toledo, how could this city transform to provide that spark and excitement that so many bright, young minds are hungry for? Or is it enough that, one day, those very same people might find themselves looking for what Toledo already offers?

Welcome to episode five of Brain Drain, a Midstory podcast that explores the city of Toledo through the eyes of the people who’ve left it behind. In this episode, we take a closer look at Toledo’s calling card and ask whether it’s enough to continue to define this city.

Visit www.midstory.org/braindrain/ to explore interactive data visuals and listen to bonus content.